Story perspectives

Grand Jury Clears Slotkin, Tensions Rise with Trump

2/14/2026

Center

Slotkin Cleared of Indictment

The grand jury declined to indict Michigan Senator Elissa Slotkin and five other lawmakers for a video urging disobedience of illegal orders.
Republican lawmakers are distancing themselves from U.S. President Donald Trump amid declining approval ratings.
A federal judge ruled Senator Mark Kelly's comments about refusing unlawful military orders are protected speech, underscoring tensions with the Trump administration.
Slotkin's lawyer argued the investigation should be closed.

Left

Trump's Racist Controversy

U.S. President Donald Trump posted a video depicting the Obamas as apes, drawing swift condemnation from Republican lawmakers.
Senator Tim Scott condemned the video as the most racist thing he has seen from this White House, prompting Trump's frustration.
Trump refused to apologize and did not discipline staffers.
The White House defended the video briefly but removed it after GOP pushback, signaling a GOP rift ahead of the 2026 midterms.

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Slotkin Cleared of Indictment

The grand jury declined to indict Michigan Senator Elissa Slotkin and five other lawmakers for a video urging disobedience of illegal orders.
Republican lawmakers are distancing themselves from U.S. President Donald Trump amid declining approval ratings.
A federal judge ruled Senator Mark Kelly's comments about refusing unlawful military orders are protected speech, underscoring tensions with the Trump administration.
Slotkin's lawyer argued the investigation should be closed.

1 / 2